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Samsung Launches new Galaxy Beam Projector Phone with dual core (PR)

Samsung has announced its updated projector phone dubbed the ‘Galaxy Beam’. The Beam comes with Android 2.3 and a 1GHz dual-core CPU, and is equipped with an integrated projector of 15 lumen brightness. The Beam also has 4-inch WVGA screen 8GB of onboard storage and 768 MB of RAM , along with a 2000 mAh battery to keep it going. The Galaxy Beam can supposedly rock a 50 inch wide projection in a nice low light environment.

For connectivity you have BT 3.0?HS, Wifi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz, camera is a 5MP AF ? 1.3MP and Flash at back. Of course Samsung has customized the UI with their very own TouchWiz. The full specs are in the PR below.

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Share the Fun with Samsung GALAXY Beam

February 26, 2012

Samsung’s projector smartphone offers unforgettable shared experience for playing multimedia content anytime, anywhere

Barcelona – February 26, 2012 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today introduced Samsung GALAXY Beam, the projector smartphone that allows users to display and share multimedia content anywhere on a large luminous projector screen.

GALAXY Beam lets users spontaneously share photos, videos or other digital media with family or friends by beaming content stored on the device directly onto walls, ceilings or improvised flat surfaces, so that everyone can share the fun without the need to huddle around smartphone or pad-sized screens. GALAXY Beam’s ultra-bright 15 lumens projector allows users to freely share life’s memorable moments instantly and in crisp clarity, even in outdoor environments.

“GALAXY Beam provides mobile freedom, enabling a unique shared experience around digital content for everyone-anywhere and instantly-from a smartphone as slim and portable as any on the market,” said JK Shin, President of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics.

GALAXY Beam is a device borne out of Samsung’s insight and innovation, demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to providing extraordinary experiences for consumers with products that let them express and fulfill themselves.”

Video clips, maps, business information, games – a whole range of multimedia content can be beamed instantly by GALAXY Beam on a crisp, high-definition projection up to 50” wide. The device features a projector-dedicated application which makes it easy to select content and activate projection in a few simple steps.

Add a dose of ambience or entertainment to a friends’ gathering by transforming any household room or outdoor deck into an instant mini home-theater, projecting full-screen video clips on a ceiling or wall for common sharing, at the touch of a button. Or capture your favorite holiday moments using the GALAXY Beam’s 5MP camera, then display a full photo slideshow to family members on a dining room wall while playing accompanying music straight from the device, so that everyone shares the experience.

For young users who depend on constant, immediate socializing of digital content and entertainment, GALAXY Beam introduces a new way of sharing. It becomes much more than a phone-a handy digital tool, deployable anywhere, which can add visual entertainment to a simple street gathering, set the mood for a small party, or simply turn life’s moments into something personally and immediately sharable. With GALAXY Beam, a birthday or anniversary party can be enlivened in seconds by sharing YouTube or Hulu music videos straight onto a ceiling or door. Likewise, students can collectively share videos or study-work in any dormitory room or student lounge, turning group study into a whole new interactive experience right from a desk table or from the palm of their hands. GALAXY Beam is also ideal for action-packed interactive gaming: Users can upload their own games or choose from over 1,000 games available via Game Hub, Samsung’s dedicated virtual gaming store, then project games to co-players or observers to turn gaming into an unbeatably interactive, shared experience. Additionally, GALAXY Beam is convenient tool for mid-sized business workers. An estate agent can beam images of candidate properties to customers as they tour them; or an architect can display draft concepts or designs to co-workers on the spot at a building site or public location.

Despite featuring a full built-in projector, the GALAXY Beam does not compromise on style or portability, measuring just 12.5mm thick and featuring an elegant, ergonomic design. It runs on Android 2.3 Gingerbread which is powered by an impressive 1.0GHz dual-core processor, ensuring great versatility and a highly responsive user interface. An impressive 8GB of internal memory allows ample multimedia storage without compromises, and a powerful 2000 mAh battery ensures greater display power and content freedom.

The GALAXY Beam is exhibited at Samsung stand (Hall 8), Mobile World Congress 2012. For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visitwww.samsungmobilepress.com.

Note to Editors:

Samsung GALAXY Beam Product Specifications

Network

HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps 850/900/1900/2100

EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900

OS

Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)

Display

4.0″ 480×800 (WVGA) TFT

Processor

1.0GHz Dual-Core Processor

Camera

5MP AF ? 1.3MP / Flash

Video

MPEG4, H.263, H.264, WMV, DivX

Recording/Playback: 720p@30fps

Audio

MP3, AAC, AAC?, eAAC?, WMA0fps

Connectivity

BT 3.0?HS, 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz, MicroUSB, USB 2.0, 3.5mm Ear Jack

PC Applications

Samsung Kies 2.0

Memory

6GB RAM ? 8GB Internal Memory, MicroSD slot (up to 32GB)

Dimension

64.2 x 124 x 12.5mm, 145.3 g

Battery

2000 mAh

? All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2011 consolidated sales of US$143.1 billion. Employing approximately 222,000 people in 205 offices across 71 countries, the company operates two separate organizations to coordinate its nine independent business units: Digital Media & Communications, comprising Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, and Digital Imaging; and Device Solutions, consisting of Memory, System LSI and LCD. Recognized for its industry-leading performance across a range of economic, environmental and social criteria, Samsung Electronics was named the world’s most sustainable technology company in the 2011 Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

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February 27, 2012
ViewSonic launches 3 dual sim phones with Ice Cream Sandwich

ViewSonic has just released three new smartphones into the market the 4s (not to be confused with iPhone 4s ), 4e and 5e.

The ViewPhone 4s features a 3.5-inch 960 x 640 Super Clear IPS LCD (identical to the real 4s) along with a five-megapixel camera, a VGA front-facing imager and a 1GHz chip, the second device the ViewPhone 4e has a 3.5-inch 480 x 320 LCD, a slower processor at 650MHz only, a three-megapixel camera and one extra touch button. The third one aka the 5e has a lower 800 × 480 resolution and a larger 5 inch screen.

February 25, 2012
HP CEO : Windows 8, Intel based HP Tablets to come this year

HP CEO : Meg Whitman, Addressing a conference in Northern California, made it very clear that HP plans on bringing a new line of tablets to the mixup. Intel Based tablets are going to be a big hit in 2012 especially because of the new mobile platform chips made by Intel. HP will use this chips and introduce Windows 8 tablets this year.

[Business Week]

February 25, 2012
ASUS TF 101 Transformer starts getting OTA ICS updates

All those with the Asus Eee Pad Transformer 101 will start to rejoice as the company begins rolling out the ICS update for the tablet. The update is supposed to bring not only the latest Android version but also a lot of fixes to issues being faced by users. The big advantage is that the tablet remains rootable even after the update. The Update has started rolling out in the US for Wi-Fi tablets and will soon come to 3G versions including international UK and Asian versions.

February 24, 2012
Nokia will bring two new Lumia devices at MWC 2012

Nokia is ready to step up to the Windows Phone Plate and is now readying a series of devices to announce at MWC in the coming days. Nokia is expected to launch two new Lumia phones with impressive specs during the conference. The first of the lot is expected to be a global version of the Lumia 900, the other is expected to be a budget friendly Nokia 610. More details when we get them.

[Reuters]

February 24, 2012
LG Optimus 4X HD revealed with Quad Core NVidia Tegra 3 and Ice Cream Sandwich (PR)

LG has shown off many phones in their lead up to the MWC 2012, this one by far is the most exciting. The Optimus 4X is a successor to their first Dual core phone the Optimus 2X. The device will feature a 1.5 GHz Quad core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor along with a 4.7-inch True HD IPS LCD (1280×720). The device will also run ICS out the box and looks like it has been skinned by LG. The device also has a 2,150mAh battery, 1GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage. On optics it has a 8MP rear camera and a 1.3 MP front shooter. Information on pricing and actual release is expected during MWC next week.

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LG’S QUAD-CORE SMARTPHONE MAKES
DEBUT AT 2012 MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS
LG Optimus 4X HD Takes Desktop Performance to the Mobile Space

SEOUL, Feb. 23, 2012 – LG today unveiled its first Quad-Core processor smartphone, LG Optimus 4X HD. Combining NVIDIA’s latest 1.5GHz Tegra 3 with True HD IPS display, the LG Optimus 4X HD delivers PC-like performance in the palm of one’s hand.

“LG introduced the world’s first Dual-Core smartphone exactly one year ago and today we’re announcing the next milestone,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Mobile Communications Company. “But speed in itself isn’t what makes LG Optimus 4X HD unique, it’s the benefit we’re bringing to customers with the HD multimedia experience in a mobile form factor.”

The NVIDIA Tegra 3 processor is the world`s only 4-PLUS-1™ Quad-Core mobile processor designed for high-level multimedia performance but utilizes a fifth battery-saver core to handle less demanding tasks such as active standby and music playback. When running at full speed, the 12-core graphics processing unit (GPU) in Tegra 3 delivers a visually rich experience and console-quality game playability.

Equipped with the True HD IPS display, the Optimus 4X HD guarantees the finest viewing experience with high resolution, clarity and no color or shape distortion. The Optimus 4X HD includes 16 GB internal memory and runs on the latest version of Android OS, Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. Besides the smooth and fast performance, the Optimus 4X HD boasts a 8-megapixel BSI (Backside Illumination) Sensor camera with LED flash and advanced multimedia features to enrich the overall multimedia experience.

And LG designers made sure that looks didn’t take a back seat to performance. The 8.9mm slim and sleek smartphone features a “prism-edged” design with enhanced materials and finish.

Additional information on the revolutionary new Optimus 4X HD will be available at LG Stand (Hall 8) at MWC 2012 from February 27 to March 1.

Key Specifications:
o Chipset: 1.5GHz Quad-Core processor (NVIDIA Tegra 3)
o Display: 4.7-inch (1280 x 720) True HD IPS
o Memory: 16GB eMMC and 1GB LP DDR2
o Camera: 8.0MP BSI Sensor (Rear) and 1.3MP (Front)
o OS: Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
o Battery: 2,150mAh

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February 23, 2012
Samsung sells 20 Million Galaxy S II units

Samsung has just announced that they have sold over 20 million Galaxy S II phones till date since launch. After crossing the 10 Mil mark back in September, the overly popular device crossed the 20 million mark in Feb 2012. The device was the most prominent phones of 2011, simply because of the mix of the amazing specs and hardware, along with great customizations from Samsung. If you are still considering the device you can see our review here.

February 23, 2012
Samsung shows off Galaxy Ace 2 and Mini 2

Samsung has taken it up its alley to release new phones every fortnight. The new Ace 2 and Mini 2 are two very suitable revisions to popular and successful first versions. Ace 2 specs include a dual-core 800MHz processor, HSDPA 14.4 connectivity, GPS/GLONASS, 1,500mAh battery and 4GB of internal storage and a 3.8-inch WVGA screen. The mini 2 on the other hand has HSDPA 7.2Mbps connectivity, an 800MHz CPU, 1,300mAh battery and 3.27-inch HVGA screen.

Both phones will come with Gingerbread – Andro 2.3 along with Sammy’s TouchWiz UI. Expect them in Europe in March and in India early summer.

For the full spec list and features read the PR below

[toggle title_open=”Press Release” title_closed=”Press Release” hide=”no” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Samsung introduces the new GALAXY Ace 2 and GALAXY mini 2

February 21, 2012

Welcome to Samsung’s AndroidTM experience with the two new members of GALAXY smartphones

SEOUL, Korea – February 21, 2012 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced two new additions to the GALAXY smartphone range: GALAXY Ace 2, which will be available in UK from April, and GALAXY mini 2, which will be available in France from March before being rolled out globally.

Building on the market success of GALAXY Ace and GALAXY mini since their release last year, GALAXY Ace 2 and GALAXY mini 2 are ideal devices for users with active lifestyles who value individuality and style without compromising on performance or affordability.

“Launched in 2011, GALAXY Ace and GALAXY mini have been a huge success in the global market. Today, we introduce GALAXY Ace 2 and GALAXY mini 2 with upgraded features and services,” said JK Shin, President of IT & Mobile Communications Division at Samsung Electronics. “Our goal remains the same-to continue to create new and improved mobile experiences that deliver something suitable for everyone. This is the hallmark of Samsung’s GALAXY range and what has made the GALAXY brand such a runaway hit with consumers around the world.”

Double-Engine Power, GALAXY Ace 2

GALAXY Ace 2 delivers efficient multitasking, lightning-fast screen transitions and high-quality graphics for even the most demanding applications and games. HSPA 14.4 connectivity provides an enhanced browsing experience and fast content downloads with minimal lag-times. Additionally, 4GB of internal storage ensures that films, photos and a whole array of personal multimedia content can be easily stored and taken out and about; a 1,500mAh battery adds to GALAXY Ace 2’s on-the-go performance for active, demanding use.

Enhanced Samsung Hubs and ChatON services ensure that users are never far from the content or social connections they care about. Music Hub allows one-step access to over 17million tracks at anytime; Game Hub offers users the very latest gaming titles; Social Hub allows users to view their instant messages, social network and email communications all in one single inbox. Samsung’s ChatON service connects users with other phone users – across any platform – into a single community, providing easy multi-format instant messaging and group chatting.

Compact and Trendy for more fun, GALAXY mini 2

GALAXY mini 2 packs a real performance punch into its slim and colorful 11.9mm-thick casing. The 3.27″ HVGA touch-screen enables high-quality multimedia viewing while maintaining the device’s portability. The compact GALAXY mini 2 ensures comfortable Web browsing and easily handles the demands of the most resource-intensive applications.

An improved 1,300mAh battery capacity also guarantees extended multimedia usage and longer chat sessions. 4GB of storage allows users to comfortably store videos, music and images.

Like GALAXY Ace 2, GALAXY mini 2 keeps users connected through ChatON and Social Hub, while Music Hub allows one-step access to over 17million tracks at any time.

For multimedia content and more detailed information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com.

Note to Editors:

Samsung GALAXY Ace 2 Product Specifications:

Network

HSDPA 14.4Mbps 900/2100

EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900

Process

800MHz Dual-Core Processor

Display

3.8″ WVGA(480×800) PLS TFT

OS

Android 2.3(Gingerbread)

Camera

Main(Rear): 5 Megapixel Auto Focus Camera with Flash

Sub(Front): VGA Camera

Video

Codec: MPEG4, H.263, H.264, WMV, VC-1, VP8

Playback/ Recording: 720p

Audio

Codec: MP3, AAC, AAC?, eAAC?, WMA, FLAC, Vorbis

Music Player with SoundAlive

3.5mm Ear Jack, Stereo FM Radio with RDS

Value-added Features&

Services

Samsung TouchWiz / Samsung L!ve Panel UX

Samsung Apps

Samsung Kies / Samsung Kies air

Samsung Hub

– Social Hub

Integrated Messaging(Email, SNS), Contacts, Calendar Sync

– Music Hub

– Game Hub

Samsung Hub Widget

– Music Hub/ Game Hub

Samsung ChatON mobile communication service

Polaris

GPS/ Glonass

Connectivity

Bluetooth® technology v 3.0

USB 2.0

Wi-Fi b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct

Sensor

Accelerometer, Digital compass, Proximity, NFC (optional)

Memory

4GB User memory ? 768MB (RAM)

microSD (up to 32GB)

Dimension

62.2 x 118.3 x 10.5 mm, 122g

Battery

Standard battery, Li-ion 1,500 mAh

? All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Samsung GALAXY mini 2 Product Specifications

Network

HSDPA 7.2Mbps 900/2100

EDGE/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900

Process

800MHz Processor

Display

3.27″ HVGA(320×480) TFT

OS

Android 2.3(Gingerbread)

Camera

Main(Rear): 3 Megapixel Fixed Focus Camera

Video

Codec: MPEG4, H.263, H.264

Playback: WVGA@30fps

Recording: VGA@25fps

Audio

Codec: MP3, Vorbis(OGG), AAC, AAC?, eAAC?, AMR-NB/WB, WAV, MIDI, WMA, FLAC

Music Player with SoundAlive

3.5mm Ear Jack, Stereo FM Radio with RDS

Value-added Features&

Services

Samsung TouchWiz/ Samsung L!ve Panel UX

Samsung Apps

Samsung Kies / Samsung Kies air

Social Hub

– Integrated Messaging(Email, SNS), Contacts, Calendar Sync

Music Hub (Downloadable via Samsung Apps)

Samsung ChatON mobile communication service

GoogleTM Mobile Services

– Android Market™, Gmail™, YouTube™, Google Search™, Google Maps™,

Syncing with Google Calendar™

ThinkFree (Downloadable via Samsung Apps)

A-GPS

Connectivity

Bluetooth® technology v 3.0

USB 2.0

Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA

Sensor

Accelerometer, Digital compass, Proximity, NFC (optional)

Memory

4GB User memory ? 512MB (RAM)

microSD (up to 32GB)

Dimension

58.6 x 109.4 x 11.9 mm, 106.8 g (NFC)

58.6 x 109.4 x 11.6 mm, 105.3 g (Non-NFC)

Battery

Standard battery, Li-ion 1,300 mAh

All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2011 consolidated sales of US$143.1 billion. Employing approximately 222,000 people in 205 offices across 71 countries, the company operates two separate organizations to coordinate its nine independent business units: Digital Media & Communications, comprising Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, and Digital Imaging; and Device Solutions, consisting of Memory, System LSI and LCD. Recognized for its industry-leading performance across a range of economic, environmental and social criteria, Samsung Electronics was named the world’s most sustainable technology company in the 2011 Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.

Android, Google, Android Market, Google Maps, YouTube, Gmail, Google Talk, and Google Search are trademarks of Google Inc.

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February 22, 2012
LG Launches three new L Series Phone pre-MWC (PR)

LG has launched three new L series phones ahead of MWC 2012, the L3, L5 and L7. Identical to the LG Prada phone, the L series are essentially based on that particular device. The L3 is a budget device whereas the L5 and L7 feature 4-inch and 4.3-inch displays respectively. All three devices are supposedly very thin,or so claims LG. No real specs or pricing has been outed for the three.

Read the full Release below.

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LG’S NEW DESIGN STRATEGY FOR MOBILE DEVICES TO BE REVEALED AT 2012 MWC
LG Takes Design Philosophy to the Next Level
with Line-up of Stylish Smartphones

SEOUL, Feb. 21, 2012 – LG Electronics (LG) makes its boldest move yet in its strategy to attain smartphone leadership with the launch of its new design identity, L-Style, at the 2012 Mobile World Congress (MWC).

The core essence of L-Style involves a timeless design with finer details that further differentiate LG’s mobile devices from the competition. LG’s design leadership has been well established in the past with a successful track-record that includes the Black Label Series phones such as the Chocolate and Shine.

“Design is consistently the top or second most important factor for customers when choosing a mobile phone,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Mobile Communications Company. “With smartphones, we sometimes took a more functional approach to design but with L-Style we’re going back to our roots as a company focused on how our products fit into the lifestyle of our customers.”

L-Style’s design philosophy is comprised of five aesthetic elements: Modern Square Style for a comfortable grip, Floating Mass Technology for a slimmer look, Seamless Layout for a more intuitive arrangement of keys, Harmonized Design Contrast utilizing metallic accents and Sensuous Slim Shape that naturally draws one’s attention.

Three new smartphones to be unveiled at MWC will initially feature the L-Style look. The Optimus L3, with a 3.2-inch display, will first launch in Europe this March. This smartphone will be followed by two other devices in the first half of the year running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich: Optimus L5 with a 4.0-inch display and Optimus L7 featuring a 4.3-inch screen.

Market availability and additional hardware specifications of all three models will be announced at a future date.

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[LG]

February 22, 2012
Blackberry Playbook gets the 2.0 Update finally : hands on soon

So the Blackberry Playbook has finally started getting 2.0 update for its OS. Check for updates via Settings on your tablet and you should see it. The update includes improvements like native email, calendar and contacts, integration with Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, new Bridge functions, and access to the Android apps in BB App World.

We will soon have a hands on video, stay tuned.

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BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 Available Today

New OS delivers an enriched user experience for BlackBerry PlayBook tablet users

Waterloo, ON – Research In Motion (RIM) (NASDAQ: RIMM; TSX: RIM) announced that the new BlackBerry® PlayBook™ OS 2.0 will be released for download today. BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 delivers an enhanced tablet experience and allows you to use the BlackBerry PlayBook in new ways throughout the day – at work and at play. “Building on the BlackBerry PlayBook tablet’s proven web browsing, multimedia and multitasking strengths, the new BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 introduces a range of new communications and productivity enhancements as well as expanded app and content support,” said David J. Smith, SVP Mobile Computing, Research In Motion.

New BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 features include:

• Integrated email client with a powerful unified inbox: With BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 you have the option to use a unified inbox that consolidates all messages in one place, including messages from Facebook®, LinkedIn® and Twitter®, as well as personal and work email accounts.

• Social Integration with Calendar and Contacts apps: The built-in calendar harnesses information from social networks and makes it available where and when users need it. Contact cards are also dynamically populated with updated information from Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to create a consolidated view of contacts.

• Updated BlackBerry Bridge app: BlackBerry® Bridge™ is a unique app that provides a Bluetooth® connection between your BlackBerry PlayBook and core apps on your BlackBerry® smartphone (including BBM™, Email, Contacts, Calendar and Browser) in order to let you view the content on the larger tablet display. With BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0, it’s easier and quicker than ever to take documents, web pages, emails and photos that appear on your BlackBerry smartphone and display them on your BlackBerry PlayBook for an optimized viewing and editing experience. The updated BlackBerry Bridge app also provides a new remote control feature that allows a BlackBerry smartphone to be used as a wireless keyboard and mouse for a BlackBerry PlayBook.

• Improved mobile productivity: Updated document editing functions, the new Print To Go app, and increased control and manageability of corporate data with BlackBerry® Balance ™ allow you to get more out of your BlackBerry PlayBook every day. Plus, an updated virtual keyboard with auto correction and predictive next word completion learns how you type to enable faster, more accurate typing.

• New apps and content: Thousands of new apps are being added to BlackBerry App World™ today (including a range of Android® apps that will run on the BlackBerry PlayBook). A new BlackBerry Video Store1 is launching today. Enhanced web browsing capabilities are also available with BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0.

In conjunction with the release of BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0, RIM is making available an initial release of BlackBerry® Mobile Fusion that will include support for managing BlackBerry PlayBook tablets and BlackBerry smartphones2 in an enterprise. The full release of BlackBerry Mobile Fusion (with mobile device management capabilities for iOS and Android devices) is planned for general availability in late March 2012. For more information about BlackBerry Mobile Fusion, please visit www.blackberry.com/mobilefusion. Availability The BlackBerry PlayBook OS 2.0 software update is now available as a free download for all BlackBerry PlayBook tablets.

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February 22, 2012
Apple is designing better water damage sensors, shows new patent

Apple’s endless patent applications have yet another addition. A new water damage sensor, that will help Apple avoid being misused for their warranties. A new patent application uncovered by AppleInsider imagines an Apple portable device that detects water damage using a sensor covered in water soluble conductive glue that, when dissolved, allows the sensor to detect its absence and log damage. Currently all iDevices use soluble stickers that turn color when wet. Apple hopes to install several of these inside your iDevice to ensure accurate water damage sensing.

No more pool parties with your iDevices.

[AppleInsider]

February 22, 2012
Qualcomm Krait S4 SoC Benchmark results out

Qualcomm’s next SoC is about to hit devices soon, but the company is already trying to spark buyer interest by benchmarking the bad boy. They sent the SoC to AnandTech and those guys ran a solid benchmark that clearly shows that the chip may actually be a great next upgrade for devices. A dual-core 1.5GHz MSM8960-powered device scored a near 240 percent result on the CPU benchmarks. The SoC has a advanced GPU which allows the Adreno 225 GPU to run at up to 400MHz.

[AnandTech]

February 22, 2012
New Technology by Nokia Siemens could end network drop problems (PR)

Nokia and Siemens HSPA+ Multiflow may offer some relief for those pesky tower to tower transitions during transit. delivering double the data speed and up to 50 percent faster response compared to existing HSPA+ networks, says Nokia Siemens.

Multiflow allows compatible devices on the edge of a cell to connect to two sites simultaneously, letting your device send and receive data between two base stations at once. The technology need not be changed, infact Multiflow will be available as a software update for Single RAN systems, as soon as Nokia Siemens pushes it in the second half of 2013

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Mobile World Congress,
Barcelona, Spain – February 20, 2012

Presents first ever demo of HSPA+ Multiflow on commercial infrastructure equipment, delivering up to double the cell edge data speed

Operators will be able to offer enhanced mobile broadband with a new feature for HSPA+ networks from Nokia Siemens Networks and Qualcomm*. Known as HSPA+ Multiflow, it allows devices located close to the edge of a mobile base station’s cell to connect with a second base station serving a neighboring cell. The ‘Multiflow’ name refers to the two different paths data can then take to reach a device. The feature makes far more efficient use of network resources, delivering up to double the data speed and up to 50% faster response compared to existing HSPA+ networks.

A live demonstration** at Mobile World Congress 2012 of the feature will be based on Nokia Siemens Networks’ commercial Single RAN offering and Qualcomm’s prototype USB dongles.

“With 100 million smart devices being added every month, we see a consequent increase in ‘smart’ applications that make use of their advanced capabilities. Not only is network traffic rising dramatically, much of it is also unpredictable in nature, and this can impact user experience,” said Keith Sutton, head of the WCDMA business line for Nokia Siemens Networks. “This is where HSPA+ Multiflow helps operators – it reduces imbalances that typically occur in network resource usage, and increases HSPA+ speed and capacity.”

HSPA+ Multiflow enables simultaneous transmission of two data streams from base stations in two adjacent cells to a single user device instead of one data stream from one base station as is the case with HSPA+*** today. Overall, this can up to double throughput (data speeds) for users at cell edge. Due to Nokia Siemens Networks’ highly scalable Single RAN equipment, operators can protect their earlier network investments, by evolving their existing HSPA networks to the new technology with a simple software upgrade.

“We are working with Nokia Siemens Networks to drive the evolution and deployment of technologies like HSPA+,” said Serge Willenegger, vice president of product management at Qualcomm. “This demonstration confirms that HSPA+ Multiflow will enable us to further enhance the HSPA+ mobile broadband user experience, and is thus a valuable contribution toward enhancing the HSPA+ value proposition and further expanding global mobile broadband coverage.”

The HSPA+ Multiflow feature is expected to be 3GPP standardized**** by mid 2012, and will be available commercially from Nokia Siemens Networks by second half of 2013.

To share your thoughts on the topic, join the discussion on Twitter using #MWC12, #HSPA+ and #mobilebroadband.

About Nokia Siemens Networks

Nokia Siemens Networks is the world’s specialist in mobile broadband. From the first ever call on GSM, to the first call on LTE, we operate at the forefront of each generation of mobile technology. Our global experts invent the new capabilities our customers need in their networks. We provide the world’s most efficient mobile networks, the intelligence to maximize the value of those networks, and the services to make it all work seamlessly.

With headquarters in Espoo, Finland, we operate in over 150 countries and had revenues of over 14 billion euros in 2011. http://www.nokiasiemensnetworks.com

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February 21, 2012
Leaked : Sony Xperia U ‘Kumquat’
Sony’s first handset, after their major split with counterpart Ericsson, might be rolling into the Mobile domain. the Sony Xperia U “Kumquat” might just have shown itself before purported launch at MWC 2012 next week. Specs include
- 3.5-inch FWVGA (854 x 480) Reality Display
- 1GHz dual-core CPU
- 8 MP Exmor R sensor with 720p video capture
- 1,290mAh battery
- Android 2.3.7
While the battery is replaceable, the OS is rumored. This phone could possibly be placed at a lower bracket compared to exiting SE phones. Oh the wonders of a new breakup.
February 21, 2012
EDIT : 2012 Another Year of the iPad

Its been 2 years since Steve Jobs got up on stage with a device that would change the way we look at portable computing forever. Since it launch, the iPad has held the crown as the most loved Tablet, with multimillion units sold each quarter. Now with the iPad 3, around the corner one can only wonder if Apple will continue to hold the lead over the competition. A kind of competition that never hindered them, there has been no real problem for Apple except the launch of the Amazon Kindle, but thats a story for another day.

Lets look at why we feel the iPad 3, if keeps up with claims, will be another tablet of the year.

Build and Form Factor

Since the beginning the iPad has been the only tablet in a unibody aluminum shell, the sheer feel of the tablet exudes to the effect of a premium device. Slim and well weighted the tablet is robust in construction and not easily destroyed, especially if you take care of the 9.7 inch display in front which can be extremely fragile.

The iPad was a wonderful device to hold in the hand, typing was easy – better in portrait and possible in landscape, it was not the most comfortable device to hold single handedly. The iPad 2 changed that completely, with a newer design that fit better, was lighter and had improvements to software which also made single hand operation easy ( gestures).

The iPad 3 is supposedly going to be built on the same platform as the iPad 2 with a small thickness increase, something that will not bother the buyer.

OS and Apps

When the original iPad was launched people called it an oversized iPod touch, possibly because the iOS was the same iOS as on an iPhone or iPod touch. Things have changed since then and Apple has added a bucket load of goodies to make the OS more a powerhouse for the best selling tablet. The OS is streamlined to make the iPad a pseudo-personal computer, with iCloud – data handling and synchronization has never been easier.

iOS for iPad also has better custom apps including professional creative apps from companies like Adobe, including Photoshop, Office apps from Apple themselves: iWork with pages, keynote and numbers for easy as pie office documentation.

Customizations to the OS, like a split keyboard and gesture navigation, make it really easy to use the tablet and no other company has been able to replicate the process in an easy streamlined manner.

The iOS platform also has the largest number of Apps on a mobile OS platform, with mostly all apps compatible with the iPad the entertainment and quality of games on the iPad still remains unmatched.

The iPad 3 is said to feature a major OS upgrades for the tablet including a main feature that is Siri on the iPad, which is already possible if you own a jailbroken iPad, but an official version will be well accepted and appreciated.

Hardware

The new iPad 3 is supposedly coming with a bumped up processor(A6 or the rumored A5X), which is supposedly carrying a new quad core processor with an advanced GPU, which will -or should improve performance by atleast 10 times. The new display will be a retina display (246 ppi : not true retina) with a double resolution ( 2048 x 1536 px) compared to the existing iPad /iPad 2, which will not only improve the media quality on the iPad, but also make it an excellent Book Reader, especially considering the new iBooks upgrade.

There are also claims of a network capability boost in the iPad 3, where some rumors point to a 4G/ LTE equipped iPad chipset, others claim that it will be a unified global device capable of CDMA/GSM network capabilities in the same device.

Apart from the above obvious upgrades, speculations of more ram and upgraded camera optics along with better speakers are also in the mix. So expect HD FaceTime and better speakers for your iPad 3s.

Games and Apps will perform better and open faster, seamless integration with iCloud will sync all your devices and keep them up to date. Apple may also bump to storage capacities to a possible 128 GB iPad.

Availability

The industry is buzzing with news of the iPad 3s release date, almost everyone claims that its going to be announced on the 7th of March 2012 with availability within 2 weeks.

Conclusion

Arguably, the iPad is not the best tablet in the market, but truly its the only one that has sold units in numbers close to PC sales. The Apple ecosystem developed by iOS – iCloud and Mac OS make it an Apple owners delight, somethings are just better on the iPad. Agreed Android offers more flexibility but the platform is still very fragmented. Even with ICS, android is laggy and the overall interface is not nearly as smooth as iOS.

If Amazon does come out with a 10 inch tablet, you can expect it to eat heavily into Apple’s share of the profit pie, only because Amazon will price it aggressively. Windows 8 / Windows Phone Apollo Tabs could also be another factor ( if ever released) .

Unless something truly unique is outed by manufacturers ( possibly a 10 inch Galaxy Note) no one will be able to bother Apple iPad sales, and the new iPad 3 will continue to lead the way through 2012.

What do you think?

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February 21, 2012